The search for the best in New Zealand's dairy industry has been narrowed down to 33 finalists across three categories.

National awards convener Chris Keeping said many finalists were relatively new to the industry, having changed careers, and were tapping into the resources and knowledge available to boost their farm businesses and make rapid progress in the industry.

"Entering the dairy industry awards is one way they have identified they can improve their knowledge and skills, meet rural professionals and other like-minded farmers, lift their confidence, have some fun and enhance their reputation," she said.

Award categories are sharemilker-equity farmer of the year, farm manager and dairy trainee.

The sharemilker contest is celebrating 25 years in 2014, making it the country's longest-running dairy farming competition.

Winners will be announced in Auckland on May 9, with nearly $160,000 in cash and prizes available.

Keeping said the finalists were busy hosting regional field days and preparing for national judging.

"It's a really busy and fulfilling time as they gain feedback and also re-evaluate their goals and how they can best achieve them," she said.

"This year's bunch demonstrates the higher degree of professionalism being required in the industry as many hold bachelor degrees.

"It is also really pleasing to see the number of females competing in the dairy trainee contest and the number of finalists that have progressed in the dairy industry awards, having been past regional winners at a lower level."